What a difference a week makes! Last week we were reminded that winter is still officially here with a nice snow storm, which dumped 10 or so inches of snow around the seacoast.  This week, we are eyeing temperatures that are predicted to climb into the 60s, a reminder that spring is only around the corner. 

My favorite part of winter is the moment when the skies clear and all the trees and fresh snow are still serenely undisturbed – it’s best when this is the morning after the storm and the skies are richly blue.  The sky is a bit ominous still in this shot of the Great Cove Boat Club, but it’s better than nothing.

Winter has finally arrived here in Portsmouth.  During lunchtime, I went for a walk through the sharp winds and the plentiful snow.  I visited my favorite spots and captured this tugboat image with the flakes flying in the moody scene. I’ve got a tradition going with myself, so when there is a respectable snowstorm moving through the area – I make a point to capture the Moran Towing tugs in the rugged setting.

Also, please don’t forget to swing by the Kennedy Gallery to say hello tonight (Friday March 2nd) between 5 and 8pm!

A unique perspective on the deteriorating Memorial Bridge. The paint of the railing can be seen peeling away to its rusted undercoating…along with the clearance heights on the abutment. Kittery, Maine can be seen on the other side of the river with its homes and docked fishing/lobstering boats.

Portsmouth has no shortage of places to eat and drink, ranking as the city with the most bars per capita in the State of New Hampshire.  The Coat of Arms Pub on Fleet Street is a pretty unique spot, with a distinct feel and look inside and a great menu featuring traditional English items – and the Seacoast’s only snooker table. Check it out sometime…but in case you don’t get there for a while, today’s shot gives you a feel for it.  This visit was spent with two fellow photographers who happen to be great at what they do – and also hilarious and a blast to hang out with…check out their work at Brian Matiash or Chris Lazzery.

After a taste of warmth and then a fast return to the bitter cold…with plans to warm back up later this week again, I thought it would be fitting to remind everyone that in a few short months we’ll have our decks back…and will be able to enjoy some outdoor dining just like this inviting scene on Espanola Way in Miami.  I went for a walk during an otherwise quiet weekend, and wanted to explore this neat outdoor cafe section of town. It’s filled from block to block of art galleries, cafes, restaurants…and just had an overall relaxed feel.  I can’t wait until more of the snow retreats and we can spend more than a few minutes outside without having to wear gloves.

Be sure to check this one out in large form by clicking on the image to see the dashing looking waiter earning his title…waiting.

Familiar parts create a new scene…a freighter heads out to Portsmouth Harbor from its stop upriver…the Memorial Bridge is up, the Moran Towing tugboats are at work instead of at rest in their usual spot…and the Martingale Wharf is unobstructed and in plain view with its new brick skin.  A heavy vignette creates a nice dark circular frame around the image…all of which make this a shot that I totally love.  Hope you do too.

It has without question been a ridiculous New England winter…and this image of Sanders Fish Market on Marcy Street provides further evidence.  The pastel buildings lining the waterfront along Marcy Street are a favorite of mine…and I especially like the fact that you can stroll into the market and pick up some fresh locally caught fish.  The snow and the icicles make this frigid scene feel a bit less welcoming, but if you make the trip you won’t regret it.